Celebrations erupted in both Nigeria and Seville on Friday evening as Akor Adams netted a decisive goal on his debut for the Super Eagles, securing a thrilling 2-1 triumph over Lesotho in a crucial World Cup qualifier, according to Soccernet.ng.
In excellent form for Sevilla in Spain’s La Liga, Adams delivered the winning strike in the 80th minute, keeping Nigeria’s aspirations for the 2026 World Cup alive and kicking.
After coming on as a substitute for Tolu Arokodare midway through the second half, Adams showcased his agility with a slick dribble before calmly slotting a low left-footed shot beyond the Lesotho goalkeeper.
Prior to Adams’ impactful entrance, Nigeria had taken the lead through a penalty converted by William Troost-Ekong, awarded after the referee spotted a handball inside the Lesotho penalty area. However, it was Adams’ maiden appearance for the Super Eagles that ultimately sealed the victory.
Akor Adams doubled the lead for Nigeria against Lesotho. pic.twitter.com/b0yrbjgm2Y
– Ojora Babatunde (@ojbsports) October 10, 2025
Sevilla’s official X (formerly Twitter) account quickly buzzed with excitement, reposting Nigeria’s goal announcement with a succinct “Akor!” caption. This was followed by enthusiastic messages such as:
“Akor clinches a late winner on his debut.”
“First match ☑️. First goal. We rise.”
Accompanied by a GIF of a jubilant dancer, another post read: “Admin’s vibe when @AkorjeromeAdams nets the winner for the @NGSuperEagles.”
At just 24 years old, Adams joined an exclusive list of Nigerian players who have scored on their international debut, a group that includes notable names like Obafemi Martins, Julius Aghahowa, Femi Opabunmi, Brian Idowu, and Stephen Makinwa.
Having scored in back-to-back La Liga fixtures against Rayo Vallecano and Barcelona before the international break, Adams will aim to extend his scoring streak when Nigeria face Benin in a critical match on Tuesday.
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World Cup Qualification: Nigeria’s Do-or-Die Clash with Benin
Nigeria’s path to the 2026 FIFA World Cup remains precariously open but demands a strong finish.
The Super Eagles currently occupy third place in Group C with 14 points, trailing Benin (17 points) and South Africa (15 points) following a gripping penultimate round of fixtures. Friday’s victory over Lesotho was vital, yet Nigeria still depends on favorable outcomes in the final matchday.
Benin secured a narrow 1-0 win over Rwanda to maintain their lead, while South Africa were held to a goalless draw by Zimbabwe. This sets the stage for a decisive final round: Nigeria will host Benin in Uyo, and South Africa will face Rwanda on home soil.
For Nigeria to clinch direct qualification to the World Cup, which will be hosted jointly by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, they must defeat Benin by a margin of at least two goals. Achieving this could level them on points and potentially surpass Benin on goal difference.
Nonetheless, Nigeria’s qualification also hinges on South Africa failing to secure a win against Rwanda. Only the group winner advances directly to the World Cup, making first place the Super Eagles’ only realistic target.
Anything less than a commanding victory could result in Nigeria missing out on the World Cup for the second consecutive tournament.